My first example is a layout where I chose to fold the paper to create a pleated frame on the left side of the layout. Next, I used a fold to create 4 pockets on the right side of the layout. I repeated the pleated fold technique that I used on the right side of the layout. This time I used the strips of pleated paper on top of my pockets.

"Stella"

To create the large pleated frame:

Cut a 3.5 x 12 inch strip of patterned paper

Score @ 7/8", 1 1/8", 2", 2 1/4", and 3"

Flip the strip over (to work from the back) and fold the first score mark starting with mountain fold, then valley fold, mountain fold, valley fold and finally mountain.

Use aggressive adhesive to hold pleats in place.

Lay them on all 4 sides and miter corners

The pockets serve as a spot for hidden journaling!

I repeated the same technique but this time only wanted a mini pleat for the tops and bottoms of my pockets.

Cut strip of paper 2 1/4 x 12

Score at 1/2",3/4",1 1/4", 1 3/4" and 2"

Repeat mountain, valley, mountain folds

Adhere to pockets and trim off edges...miter corners

I did a double pleat for my sides of the pockets. (Same technique as pictured above)

Cut strip of paper 1 1/2 x 12

Score at 1/2", 3/4" and 1 1/4"

Repeat mountain, valley fold

Lay on the pocket and trim off excess. Miter the corners.

I used the leftover mitered corner pieces for the corners of the second page of the layout.

I did a box pleat for the center of page 2

To create the pockets...

Cut paper to 4 1/2 x 5

Score at 1/2" on both ends on the 4 1/2 inch side

Score at 1/2" on the 5 inch side... miter corners

Add tape to the flaps and adhere to the page

This technique can be used for cards as well...

Cut a piece of patterned paper at 10 x 5 3/8

Score at 1", 1.5",2.5",3", 4", 4.5", 5.5", 6", 7", 7.5", 8.5" and 9"

Using a ruler and pencil, mark the short side at 2 3/16 and 3 3/16

On long side, mark at 4 1/2 and 5 1/2

Use ruler to connect marks and using scissors or trimmer, cut on the mark you just made.

Start at one end and do the mountain, valley fold until you reach the middle.

Repeat above step on the other side.

Adhere with aggressive tape.

Pleating and folding paper is so much fun and adds a unique look to your layouts and cards! I hope I have inspired you to try this month's challenge. Can't wait to see your projects that include a fold!

The 'Top 3,' as chosen by our Design Team, will have bragging rights with a 'Top 3 Fave' button to display on their own blogs. Everyone who participates will be entered to win the prize for this challenge.

Use the Link button at the bottom of this post to link up your project. If the Link tool is unavailable, please include the direct link in your blog comment on this post.

Don't have a blog? You can also link to a photo in a gallery like Photobucket or scrapbook.com.

The Linky Tool will ask you for the direct link to your project, not just your blog address.

Click on your projects specific url and copy/paste it to link up.

********

(*QQ Prize Disclaimer: Prize contest open to US residents only.

If you live outside the US and play, you are responsible for any shipping costs for prizes won.